On Tuesday, Mrs. Barbara Wolf, the Head of the German Inspection Team in Sierra Leone, paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), Madam Kenyeh Barlay, at her office on Tower Hill in Freetown.
The visit aimed to evaluate the strength of cooperation between Germany and Sierra Leone, particularly in implementing key development projects through agencies like GIZ, under the bilateral cooperation framework.
During the meeting, both parties engaged in productive discussions concerning the historic partnership between Sierra Leone and Germany. The conversation showcased the strong collaboration between the Government of Sierra Leone and the German Embassy, emphasizing the efficient coordination of development programs. Topics discussed included renewable energy, agriculture and food security, digitalisation, and women’s economic empowerment. These areas of focus align with the Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP) 2024-2030.
The meeting also touched on the impact of global economic challenges, such as the Russia- Ukraine war, and how ongoing interventions aim to mitigate the economic shocks faced by vulnerable populations. Madam Barlay acknowledged the German Embassy’s proactive efforts in development coordination, noting that Germany is now the third Co-Chair of the Development Partners Committee (DEPAC), representing bilateral partners. She commended Germany’s flexibility and consistent engagement in key government-led development dialogues.
A critical issue discussed during the meeting was the suspension of USAID funding and its potential implications for development assistance coordination in Sierra Leone. Both parties shared strategies to mitigate the effects of the funding suspension, ensuring that progress continues in critical development sectors.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation and enhancing concerted efforts toward Sierra Leone’s sustainable development.
Report by John Farfira Kamara,
LENA Correspondent
Contact: johnfarfirakamara@gmail.com
+232 79 185 532
Comments